Proud to be at Grand Lodge Elks Convention

Posted:
07/20/2013 12:47:48 PM MDT

Charlotte Burrous

Reno, Nev. — Watching the state association presidents and representatives march down the aisle with the flags of all the states to open the Grand Lodge Elks Convention took my breath away, just like it did the two conventions I was privileged to attend.

This time was special because as the Exalted Ruler of Cañon City Elks Lodge No. 610, I was proud to represent my lodge at the convention, where we demonstrated our patriotism.

It was a week filled with meetings, where we learned about the Elks National Foundation and other programs.

One of the highlights of the week happened Monday. While listening to the speakers, I noticed the Elks in the Oklahoma section get up and leave. I wasn't sure what was going on. Pretty soon, one of the Colorado Elks came over and asked the delegates to help the Oklahoma Elks in the celebration when one of their own was elected as the new Grand Exalted Ruler for 2013-2014.

We walked back to a room, where we picked up hats and bags of goodies to distribute after the election. We were taken into the main hall, where we waited for our cue. We watched the videos then someone blew a whistle and the balloons fell from the ceiling. At that point, we distributed red, white and blue beads, Frisbees, bouncy balls, noise makers and more. What a great celebration and to be a part of it was a lot of fun. It reminded me of the time I got to go to a state convention during a national election. We sat in our assigned sections, cheering our states on whenever they were mentioned.

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It also was inspiring to hear Grand Exalted Ruler Millard Pickering talk about living in a small town in Oklahoma on Route 66. Pickering and his friend used to sneak out of their houses late at night to go to the gas station, where they bought bottles of pop and watched the cars drive by. They vowed someday to travel the country to see the exotic places they knew only by the license plate names. And now his opportunity has arrived. In the next year, he will travel to every state in the union as part of his duties.

During the sessions, we also learned how Elks provide scholarships to the most valuable male and female students every year. Each student was provided a chance to talk about their goals and achievements and how the scholarships will help them reach their aspirations.

Another highlight were the National Hoop Shoot winners, who both spoke about shooting baskets and working to become the best hoop shooters. And they achieved their goals, winning the national championship. What an inspiration. More children should be a part of this great tradition.

And Wednesday, Colorado's own Littleton Elks Lodge No. 1650 won the final round in the Ritual Championship, where lodges from across the country have worked for the privilege of being the national champion. How exciting to have one of our Elks Lodges from Colorado achieve one of the highest honors in the nation.

The week wrapped up Thursday when the new Grand Lodge Officers were installed for the upcoming year. His motto this year is "Elks Live: Elks Give," where Pickering encouraged all Elks to give of their time, talent and treasure, which we already do.

One of the main things we support are our veterans. As long as there are veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them.

If you aren't sure what Elks are, I'll be glad to tell you. They believe in patriotism, veterans and the future of our children. Elks truly care, and they truly share.